Problem Definition

Research Methods for Managers

Defining the Problem AreaAreas to explore:• Problems that are currently existing and need

to be solved• Areas that the researcher feels need to be

improved• Concept or theory that needs to be tightened

up to bring clarity to a situation• Some research question that a researcher

might want to explore

Problem Area DefinitionExisting problem• Response to unspecific complaints which lead you to

believe that something is going on and needs to be looked at.

Requiring Improvement• A policy has been put in place but you are not sure if it

is really having the impact that it should.Tightening an empirical issue• Taking a vague statement and making more preciseBroad problem• Curiosity about what is working or not working

Problem Area Definition

The StatementA good problem statement does the

following:• Concisely states a situation that

needs to be changed.• States who/what is affected.• Quantifies the problem

Problem Area Definition

CausesConsider the following:

• Why does the problem exist?

• Is there more than one cause?

• Are the causes interdependent?

Problem Area Definition

ConsequencesConsider the following:

• What are the consequences of the problem?

• How many people does it affect?• Are there political, cultural, and

economic effects?

Problem Area DefinitionWhat is a good problem statement?• A problem statement is specific. • A good thesis supplies a specific subject and a clear

direction for your paper. • The specific facts, details and examples that you use

will help to clarify the idea that you are trying to express.  

• Poor: Deregulation is good for the telecommunications industry.

• Better: Deregulation  is  not only welcomed by consumers as a way to lower prices, but it also serves as a catalyst  for innovation.

Problem Area Definition• A problem statement is restrictive. • A good problem statement deals with

restricted "bite-sized" issues, issues that would otherwise require a lifetime of writing.

• When you restrict the scope of your assertions in the thesis your writing will be more focused. The length of your paper will determine how restricted your thesis will be.

• Poor: there are many advantages to deregulating local telephone service.

• Better: Deregulating local telephone service has political, social and economic advantages.